Napa Valley in autumn is one of my favorite places to be in California as we almost never get fall leaves in Los Angeles. The grapes have been harvested and the vineyards are ablaze with rusty fall colors. I sometimes spend the Thanksgiving holidays at my brother’s house near Yountville because it gives our spread-out family a chance to get together in a gorgeous environment.
Find things to do and where to stay in Napa, here
My brother’s backyard looks out into a small vineyard. The hot air balloons pass over his house and the vineyards in the morning.
You can book a Hot Air Balloon ride in Yountville at Napa Valley Balloons.
Walking the vine trail
I love to take invigorating walks on the Napa Vine Trail to Yountville because it is free from cars. You may need to dodge a bicycle or two but it keeps you from harm’s way from tipsy wine enthusiasts.
The trail runs next to Highway 29 and when it is completed it will be 47 miles of trail from Calistoga to Vallejo.
You may also see the Napa Valley Wine Train passing by on nearby tracks. The residents of Napa are not keen on the train running through their neighborhood, but for tourists, it’s a lovely way to enjoy the countryside and drink wine without having to drive.
If you are in a hiking mood, you may enjoy the trail next to the Napa River Downtown.
There are plenty of other beautiful hiking trails throughout Napa Valley as well.
Visit Downtown Napa
If you are in downtown Napa you grab a sandwich or even oysters at the Oxbow Public Market. There are several vendors you can choose from and gourmet food items and gifts are also available for purchase.
Next doo is CIA at Copia where you can learn about all things culinary and visit its outside garden.
Watch my quick Instagram Reel of a CIA exhibit.
Click on the player below.
It’s all about Wine Tasting
No trip to Napa is complete without wine tasting but champagne is even better! We love stopping off at Domaine Chandon where my sister-in-law is a member.
There are plenty of mega wineries in Napa but often the small ones are delightful and intimate. Elyse Winery is a small winery near Yountville. We had a table to ourselves on the patio and personal service from one of the family members.
I love visiting Napa Valley any time of year, but the fall is always so special.
Enjoy this short video
Click on the player below.
This video was created with Camtasia
I haven’t really found a good overview of the damage, so thanks for posting this. If I were to live in that area it would be Yountville. Know you hear this all the time, but your daughter is so beautiful.
Thanks, Brenda. I love Yountville too. It’s such a charming little town. And thanks for the compliment about my daughter. I am constantly amazed by her.
It looks lovely Rebecca and a great combination of walking and enjoying a vino. I love the autumn colours as we don’t have these trees where I live. Here in Australia we are heading into Summer